Job Title: Control Systems Engineer (Electrical)
Job Summary:
The Control Systems Engineer (Electrical) Manager is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, optimization, and maintenance of electrical control systems across various industrial applications. This leadership role requires advanced technical expertise in control systems, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and automation, with a focus on managing a team of engineers and technicians. The Manager will lead multiple projects, ensure efficient system operations, mentor junior staff, and ensure all systems comply with safety and regulatory standards. This role also involves collaborating with cross-functional teams and driving continuous improvement and innovation within the control systems domain.
Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership and Management:
- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of control systems engineers, technicians, and support staff, ensuring effective collaboration and performance.
- Provide guidance and professional development to team members, fostering a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and safety.
- Set team goals and objectives, conduct regular performance reviews, and offer feedback to help engineers grow and succeed.
- Ensure adequate staffing and resource allocation to meet project needs and deadlines.
Project Management and Execution:
- Manage and oversee multiple control systems projects, from conceptual design through to final implementation and optimization.
- Develop project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Coordinate with project managers, senior engineers, and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of control systems into broader projects.
- Monitor project progress, address potential risks or challenges, and provide regular updates to senior management and stakeholders.
System Design and Optimization:
- Lead the design, development, and programming of complex electrical control systems, including PLCs, SCADA, HMI, and automation systems.
- Oversee system integration and ensure that control systems are optimized for performance, efficiency, and reliability.
- Review and approve control system designs, specifications, and programming to ensure they meet client requirements and regulatory standards.
- Drive system improvements, ensuring optimal system performance and suggesting upgrades to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance Oversight:
- Lead troubleshooting efforts for complex electrical control system failures, providing expert advice on resolving issues effectively.
- Ensure that systems are maintained to the highest standards, overseeing the implementation of preventive and corrective maintenance programs.
- Ensure that control systems perform reliably and efficiently, reducing downtime and preventing failures in critical systems.
Collaboration with Other Departments:
- Work closely with other engineering teams, such as electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation engineers, to ensure seamless integration of control systems with other systems and components.
- Coordinate with production, operations, and quality assurance teams to ensure that control systems align with operational needs and objectives.
- Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and clients to ensure that control systems meet expectations and are delivered on time.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure that all control systems are designed, installed, and maintained in compliance with local and international electrical codes, safety regulations, and industry standards (e.g., NEC, IEC, OSHA).
- Lead efforts to ensure that safety protocols are adhered to across all phases of control system development, from design to installation and operation.
- Perform safety audits and risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards in control system operations.
Technology and Innovation Leadership:
- Stay current with the latest technologies, tools, and trends in control systems, automation, and PLC programming to ensure the team and systems are using best practices.
- Introduce new technologies and innovations that improve system functionality, reduce costs, or enhance system reliability.
- Foster an environment of continuous improvement by encouraging the team to adopt new techniques, methodologies, and tools.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Ensure the preparation and maintenance of comprehensive documentation for all control systems, including system designs, programming, configurations, and maintenance records.
- Prepare reports for senior management and clients on system performance, project status, and any technical issues or improvements.
- Ensure that all project documentation complies with internal and external quality standards and regulatory requirements.
Budget and Resource Management:
- Develop and manage budgets for control systems projects, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and that costs are controlled.
- Monitor expenditures, track project costs, and adjust budgets as needed to meet project requirements.
- Ensure that the team has the necessary tools, materials, and equipment to complete their tasks effectively.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Extensive knowledge of electrical control systems, including PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell), SCADA, HMI, and automation technologies.
- Strong experience with control system programming, including PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text).
- In-depth understanding of electrical safety standards, codes (e.g., NEC, IEC), and industry regulations (e.g., OSHA).
- Proven experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously, from planning through to execution and delivery.
- Strong leadership and mentoring skills, with the ability to guide and develop a team of engineers and technicians.
- Advanced troubleshooting skills, with the ability to resolve complex system faults and provide technical solutions.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact with internal teams, clients, vendors, and contractors.
- Experience in system optimization, process improvements, and energy management in control systems.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Certifications in control systems, PLC programming, project management, or electrical safety (e.g., PMP, Six Sigma, NEC, Siemens, Allen-Bradley) are highly desirable.
Experience:
- 8+ years of experience in control systems engineering, electrical systems, automation, and industrial systems.
- At least 3-5 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role, overseeing control system projects and managing engineering teams.
- Proven experience in managing complex projects, troubleshooting, and optimizing control systems across industrial environments.
Tools and Technologies:
- Proficiency in PLC programming software (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, Allen-Bradley).
- Experience with SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, Siemens WinCC) and HMI development.
- Familiarity with electrical design software and simulation tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MATLAB, LabVIEW).
- Knowledge of industrial control protocols, communication networks, and cybersecurity best practices.
Other Requirements:
- Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
- Ability to make decisions under pressure, while maintaining a focus on quality, safety, and project goals.
- Willingness to travel to client sites, project locations, and supplier facilities as needed.
- A strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.